Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Sorex
Habitat
Common shrews inhabit moist environments across Europe and northern Asia, including woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows, and gardens. They prefer areas with dense vegetation and ample ground cover for burrowing, often near water sources like streams or wetlands. This species avoids open, dry areas due to its need for humidity.
Diet
Common shrews primarily eat insects, earthworms, spiders, and other invertebrates, which they hunt actively using their keen sense of smell. They feed frequently, up to every 2-3 hours, due to their high metabolic rate, and are known to consume their body weight in food daily. Feeding occurs mainly at night when they are most active.
Behavior
Common shrews are solitary and highly territorial, marking their areas with scent and aggressively defending them from intruders. They are primarily nocturnal, spending the day in underground burrows or hidden nests, and exhibit rapid, erratic movements when foraging. Despite their small size, they produce ultrasonic calls for communication and echolocation.
Conservation Status
The common shrew is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population trend across its wide range. Major threats include habitat loss from urbanization and agricultural expansion, though it remains widespread and adaptable.